Tuesday September 26, 2017

Washington News

Expanded Relief for Hurricane Irma Victims

As recovery efforts continue in Florida and Georgia for the devastated areas affected by Hurricane Irma, the IRS has expanded its relief plans. In IR-2017-155, 156 and 157, the Service authorized new tax relief for both Florida and Georgia.

IRS Letter 155 covers residents of Florida. Many are on extension to file their personal tax returns with the due date of October 16. Now all of the Florida areas designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) qualify for relief.

Tax returns and payments may be filed by January 31, 2018. The relief also applies to business tax deadlines for quarterly payroll and excise taxes. The late deposit fees for payroll and excise taxes will also be waived.

Limited waivers are available even for residents outside the affected areas if there are necessary records located in a disaster zone. Taxpayers may call 1-866-562-5227 to see if the disaster relief applies. You also may be granted a filing delay if you are a worker directly involved in relief efforts. You should confirm your status with the IRS prior to changing your filing to the later date.

IRS Letter 156 grants similar relief to Irma victims in the entire state of Georgia. Many personal and business filing dates are now extended to January 31, 2018.

The disaster relief webpage on www.irs.gov has specific details. The IRS website explains who is qualified for relief and the filing dates that are delayed until next year.